The thumb key is a notorious trouble spot on flutes due to the short length of the mechanism tubing involved and the action of the player’s thumb at a right angle to the key’s axis of rotation. Nagahara has developed a more durable and stable mechanism design to improve this key. The secret to this new assembly is the double-sleeve configuration assuring stability and strength combined with an ergonomic shape designed to improve comfort on the left hand's position. This innovative key design is standard in all of our instruments.

This simple but meaningful improvement to the flute’s mechanism is sure to make a difference in fast passages and legato movements with added comfort, better hand position for consistent balance, and extended stability after years of playing. The Nagahara Thumb key is one of the patented innovations invented by Kanichi Nagahara.